Veg News 10th September

It’s a time of abundance and our veg display is absolutely bursting
with fresh leafy produce. After a short hiatus, true spinach is back: available
loose from market garden Glebelands (in Sale), as well as in bags from Duncan
Gielty in Ormskirk. After much consideration Duncan has changed to a new supply
of compostable bags. These are made using potato starch and can be used to line
your kitchen compost caddy afterwards. They are not see-through like plastic
bags, so the contents aren’t as clear to see, but they help to keep leafy produce
just as fresh. Also look out for his lovely pak choi, which will also be packed
in the new bags.

Our brassica range is very impressive, if we do say so
ourselves! Broccoli, kale and cauliflowers are in good supply, and Lancashire
cabbages have bulked up nicely – if you struggle to get through a whole hard cabbage
just ask one of the veg team to chop one in half for you.

We are missing some seasonal UK roots due to a crop failure
at the Wass’ farm based in North Yorkshire. Their early turnip, swede and celeriac
plants were wiped out by pests and the next crop won’t be ready for a while, in
the meantime we are filling in with some lovely Dutch stuff.

After a decent season, blueberries have come to an end and
now is the time to celebrate French Bourjasotte figs – tasty, dark and delicate.
They are at their best when almost oozing juice. They are lovely in sweet
dishes of course, but also make a great addition to salads.

Finally, Muscat de Hambourg grapes deserve another shout out:
their flavour is unrivalled. You’re welcome to try one on the shop floor.